LLM International Law – February or September entry

Compulsory modules

Introduction to International Law

Explore the key features of the international legal system such as the nature of international law, treaties and other sources, the subjects of international law, dispute settlement, and the establishment of state responsibility.  

Dissertation

Develop high-level skills in research design, management and implementation as you embark on a major independent research project. You’ll demonstrate detailed knowledge of your chosen topic as you critically analyse your subject matter and consider it within the wider legal and socio-political landscape.  

Optional modules

The Use of Military Force

Embark on an in-depth study of military actions of states and the prohibition on the use of force. You’ll receive a unique insight into the most controversial and fundamental aspects of the modern international legal order, using real-word case studies to understand what circumstances justify military force.  

The Law of Armed Conflict (International Humanitarian Law)

Study the legal protections for injured or captured combatants and civilians, the rules as to how warfare is conducted, and the law of occupation. You’ll learn through major case studies of armed conflict, including occupation, from the contemporary era developing a substantive understanding of the jus in bello and its development.  

International Refugee Law

Study principles of state sovereignty and migration control in the context of refugees escaping their home state due to fear of persecution for reasons of race, religion, nationality, or political opinion. You’ll study the international regime of refugee protection including its virtues and shortcomings. 

Human Rights Law, Policy and Practice

Explore contemporary challenges and developments associated with human rights concepts and institutions. You’ll consider the distinction between civil, political, economic, social and cultural rights as you explore a range of treaties, agencies and bodies and systemic challenges.  

International Organisations and Global Governance

Examine key international organisations from universal organisations such as the UN, regional organisations such as the EU, and intergovernmental ones such as NATO. You’ll consider their role in global governance as you explore relevant legal principles and obligations through case studies.  

Contemporary Issues in International Law

Consider the impact of topics such as security, climate change, cyberspace, global health and sustainable development on international law. You’ll explore key case studies related to global challenges as you develop a substantive and theoretical understanding of international law and its implementation.   

Research methods for LLM Students or Research Methods (Advanced)

Formulate a research question for your dissertation and identify an appropriate methodological approach for your research. You’ll gain relevant knowledge and develop skills vital to plan and execute your dissertation.

International Investment Law and Arbitration

Study the law of foreign investment and investment treaty arbitration through a close analysis of bilateral investment treaties. You’ll acquire an in- depth understanding of the law, politics and economics related to the investment treaty regime while considering the perspective of host states, multinational corporations and other interest groups.   

International Commercial Arbitration (CIArb accredited)

Discover the importance of arbitration as a form of dispute resolution in both domestic and international contexts. You’ll gain a critical understanding of the important aspects of international commercial arbitration, as well as the economic and legal concepts determining the choice of dispute resolution methods by commercial parties.  

Contemporary Issues in Intellectual Property Law

Explore intellectual property law through the lens of contemporary debates. You’ll critically engage with the role and impact of intellectual property law while studying key areas such as copyright, performers rights, trademark and patents as you assess statutory provisions and case law.  

You can also select modules from programmes offered by other schools and departments, including from International Development, Politics and International Relations and Henley Business School. 

These are the modules that we currently offer for 2024/2025 entry. They may be subject to change as we regularly review our module offerings to ensure they’re informed by the latest research and teaching methods. 

Please note that the University cannot guarantee that all optional modules will be available to all students who may wish to take them. 

You can also register your details with us to receive information about your course of interest and study and life at the University of Reading.